Top 10 Coffee Producing Countries: Explore the Global Coffee Export Data

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, with billions of cups consumed every day. But have you ever wondered where your coffee comes from? Coffee production is a crucial industry that involves millions of farmers and workers worldwide. The process starts with growing coffee beans, which are then harvested, dried, roasted, and ground to make the coffee we all know and love. The second most traded commodity in the world is coffee. 

There is one thing that all coffee-trade nations have in common they are all located in the region known as the Tropics. When you buy a blend from the store or take your first sip of coffee, it can occasionally be hard to pinpoint exactly where it originates from. However, your coffee travels a long way to reach your cup, using beans from Asia, Africa, and South America. The top coffee-producing countries play a significant role in shaping the global coffee market and economy. 

According to the world coffee export data and global trade data, the total value of global coffee exports amounted to $42.27 billion in 2023-24 with a slight decrease of 7% from the previous year. The total quantity of international coffee exports was 8.11 million tons in 2023-24. Around 178 million kilograms of coffee was produced worldwide in 2023-24. The 4-digit HS code for coffee in global trade is 0901 & 2101 In this article, we will explore the top 10 coffee producing countries and the global coffee export data.

Top 10 Coffee Producing Countries in the World: Global Coffee Producers

The top 10 coffee exporting countries in the world play a vital role in the international coffee market. These countries, including Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Ethiopia, contribute significantly to the global coffee supply, each with its unique flavor profiles and growing techniques. The following table shows a list of the biggest coffee producers in the world as per the coffee shipment data for 2024 with their production volume in million 60-kg bags:

1. Brazil (39%)

Brazil is the largest coffee producer in the world, accounting for over 39% of global coffee production. The country is known for its high-quality Arabica beans, which are grown in the states of Minas Gerais, Sao Paulo, and Parana. On average, Brazil produces 2.68 million metric tons of coffee annually. For more than 150 years, Brazil has also maintained its top spot as the world's greatest producer of coffee and a top coffee exporter, as per the Brazil coffee export data.

2. Vietnam (16%)

Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, as per Vietnam customs export data of coffee. As per the Vietnam coffee export data, coffee is Vietnam's second largest exported commodity after rice, with over 1.5 million metric tons exported annually. Vietnam continues to grow and produce coffee in the Buôn Ma Thuột region, where it was first brought by French colonialists in the 1800s. One of the biggest producers of Robusta coffee beans worldwide, Vietnam saw a boom following reform in 1986 that opened the country's coffee sector to private investment, making it the world's second-largest producer of coffee.

3. Colombia (8%)

Colombia, the third-biggest coffee producer in the world is famous for its high-quality Arabica coffee, particularly from the region of Hulia. Colombia produces more than 760 thousand metric tons of coffee a year. Colombian coffee is known for its smooth, mild flavor and is highly sought after by coffee connoisseurs around the world.

4. Ethiopia (5%)

Ethiopia is often referred to as the birthplace of coffee, and the country produces a wide variety of coffee beans, including the prized Yirgacheffe and Sidamo beans. Ethiopian coffee is known for its floral and fruity notes. Ethiopia produces more than 421 thousand metric tons of coffee a year. Ethiopians have a strong affinity for coffee, which contributes 10% of the nation's GDP.

5. Indonesia (5%)

Indonesia is a significant coffee producer, with most of its coffee being of the Arabica variety. The country is known for its unique processing methods, such as "giling basah," which results in a full-bodied, earthy flavor. Indonesia produces more than 668 thousand metric tons of coffee a year. The production of coffee began in the late 1600s, while the Netherlands was still a colony. The first island in Indonesia to produce coffee was Java.

6. Uganda (4%)

Uganda is one of the top coffee-producing countries in Africa, with most of its coffee being of the Robusta variety. The country's coffee industry has been steadily growing, with exports increasing year on year. Known for its Robusta coffee output, Uganda produces more than 209,000 metric tons of coffee beans annually. It has been growing coffee for many generations.

7. India (4%)

India has a long history of coffee production, with the majority of its coffee coming from the southern states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Indian coffee is known for its bright acidity and full-bodied flavor. More than 234 thousand metric tons of coffee are produced annually in India. They replaced much of their coffee crops with tea plantations after they were severely impacted by the coffee rust disease. Nonetheless, coffee has existed in India since the 1600s, during the Mughal Empire's rule.

8. Honduras (3%)

Honduras has emerged as a major player in the coffee industry, with its exports steadily increasing in recent years. The country produces mainly Arabica beans, which are grown in the regions of Copan, Comayagua, and Santa Barbara. Honduras produces more than 475 metric tons of coffee a year on average.

9. Peru (2%)

Peru is a rising star in the coffee world, with its exports increasing significantly in recent years. The country produces mainly Arabica beans, which are grown in the regions of Cajamarca and Amazonas. They are located in the north, central belt, and south of the country, and their coffee is grown in ten distinct locations. Since the 1700s, Peru has produced more than 346 metric tons of coffee annually.

10. Mexico (2%)

Mexico is a significant coffee producer in the Americas, with most of its coffee coming from the southern states of Chiapas and Veracruz. Mexican coffee is known for its nutty and chocolatey flavor profiles.

Leading Coffee Exporters in the World: Coffee Exports by Country

Brazil leads as the top coffee exporter globally, with a remarkable $7.35 billion accounting for 17.4% of the market share. Following closely behind are Switzerland and Germany, showcasing strong positions in the coffee export industry. The top 10 coffee exporter countries according to the coffee shipment data and coffee export data by country for 2024 include:

1. Brazil: $7.35 billion (17.4%)
2. Switzerland: $3.64 billion (8.6%)
3. Germany: $3.40 billion (8.1%)
4. Vietnam: $3.18 billion (7.5%)
5. Colombia: $2.91 billion (6.9%)
6. Italy: $2.58 billion (6.1%)
7. Honduras: $1.48 billion (3.5%)
8. Belgium: $1.30 billion (3.1%)
9. France: $1.27 billion (3%)
10. Ethiopia: $1.22 billion (2.9%)

International Coffee Production in 2024 by region

In 2024, international coffee production by region shows a diverse landscape of coffee cultivation worldwide. Latin America remains a significant player, with countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Honduras leading in production. Africa continues to thrive in coffee production, with Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda contributing significantly to the global market. Asia, specifically Vietnam and Indonesia, continue to show substantial growth in coffee production, further solidifying their presence in the industry.

• South America: 89.3 million kilograms
• Asia and Oceania: 49.9 million kilograms
• Africa: 20.1 million kilograms
• Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico: 18.7 million kilograms

Global Coffee Exports & Production in the Last 10 Years

Key Takeaways from the Global Coffee Export Data

• Brazil leads the way in coffee exports & production according to the coffee export data of Brazil, followed by Vietnam and Colombia.
• The global demand for specialty coffee is on the rise, with countries like Ethiopia and Guatemala gaining popularity and production rates, as per the USDA.
• Climate change and environmental factors are increasingly impacting coffee production and exports, as per the International Coffee Organization. 

Conclusion: Brewing Global Excellence

That is our journey to the world's biggest coffee producers. Coffee has a deep history and a centuries-old link to each nation. However, every nation excels at producing coffee and is deserving of a place among the world's leading producers. These are the most well-known coffee-producing countries, while there are undoubtedly other nations that cultivate coffee.  

It is fascinating to explore the top 10 coffee-producing countries and the unique flavors and characteristics of their coffee beans. Whether you prefer a smooth Colombian brew or a robust Vietnamese Robusta, there is a wide variety of coffee options to choose from around the world. Next time you sip on your favorite cup of coffee, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into producing this beloved beverage.

To get exclusive export data and coffee market trends, visit TradeImeX and contact us at info@tradeimex.in. Get a list of top & verified coffee suppliers and coffee exporting companies with our global coffee exporters database. Besides this, you can also subscribe to our services for numerous other countries' coffee exporter databases as well!